Dear Aspirant,

A music teacher instructs students on musical principles and performs musical practices such as singing, playing instruments, listening to and evaluating musical works. Jobs in music education are available in a variety of settings. Music teachers may work part-time or full-time from home, in a private music school, at a primary, intermediate or secondary school, or at a college, university or music conservatory. The guide provides information on how to become a music teacher, specific duties, salary and job prospects for music teachers.

A music teacher instructs students or classes in general music, choral or vocal music, instrumental music, or a combination of these subjects. All class and one-on - one instruction may include a variety of student ages, skills, and grade levels. Independent music educators who provide lessons from their home or private studios may also work with adult students. Music teachers must show considerable skill, expertise, flexibility and creativity; promote music appreciation as well as advise students on the technical aspects of music and performance.

The qualifications of music teachers differ depending on the type of education. Becoming a music teacher at a public school requires a bachelor's degree in music or education and the completion of an accredited teacher training program. There are no compulsory qualifications or licensing requirements for private music teachers; career success will depend on cumulative knowledge, experience and skills in the chosen musical specialty.

The duties of a music teacher will vary depending on the specialty and job setting chosen. Public and private school music teachers may conduct school choirs, marching bands, or orchestras. Music teachers create curriculum, hold rehearsals and musical performances, and evaluate students for grading purposes. Most music teachers often take part in extracurricular activities, such as taking students on field trips to attend or performing in various musical performances.

Like any teacher working in a public school, a music teacher must have a bachelor's degree and complete a state-approved teacher training curriculum to fulfil the certification requirements. A bachelor's degree in music education may include courses in music theory, early childhood music, and choral conduct. A student teaching period is typically included, giving potential music teachers real-world experience. Typical steps to become a music teacher are as follows:

1. to earn a bachelor's degree in music or music education that requires a teacher's training program.
2. Do a student teaching internship in music at the grade level(s) you want to teach.
3. Take the appropriate state tests for prospective teachers.

If you already have a bachelor's degree in music but have not completed the required training courses, you may be eligible for alternative teacher certification. The completion of a master's degree in education for first-time teachers may be another route to the certification of teachers. Private schools may or may not allow music teachers to hold a license to teach, but many will require teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree.

Hope this helps. All the best!